Detecting Lubrication Issues Through Vibration Analysis.
High-frequency vibration analysis identified insufficient grease in a SAG mill pinion bearing, leading to improved lubrication and smoother operation after re-greasing.
Effective Vibration Analysis can also help identify lubrication issues especially when data is collected from load zone of the bearing housing. During routine monitoring of our SAG mill pinion bearings it was observed that there was high frequency vibration (above 20khz) indicating friction between rollers and outer ring of discharge end pinion bearing. Based on this finding it was decided to open up the caps of both bearings and inspect grease condition. Upon inspection the discharge end bearing was found to have slightly insufficient grease compared to feed end. Additional grease was applied and the next vibration readings showed a reduction in envelope spectrum amplitudes confirming improved lubrication and smoother bearing operation. This case reinforces how effective condition monitoring can detect stage 1 bearing issues, allowing simple corrective actions like re greasing to prevent premature wear, extend bearing life and improve overall asset reliability.
Spectrum- High frequency vibration peaks of 9.2x and its harmonics have come down post greasing while no change in feed end spec as there was never an issue.
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